I Quit!

I've gotten extremely busy as of the last few months and can't find the time to write this blog when I know I should be doing other things. Plus, I'm almost officially on the waitlist for my adoption and I want to write more on that blog since I am using it to create a book for little Baby I. I can't do all of these things so I've decided to give this blog up.

If you want to keep up with me you can catch me at my adoption blog. I'm sure once things settle down I'll come up with a new blog maybe something with a title like: Design School Dropout, Noncommittal, Procrastination Diaries, or This Lazy House. I don't know but I'm sure I'll be back with a better plan this time. Until then I'm just going to read my favorite blogs and write on my other blog.

Thanks for following for the short time I did this. You guys rock!

Peace Out!

Tami

Note To Self

The camera does add 10 (or 20 pounds).   

Get ye to the gym AND fast!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving

I'm on my way to Myrtle Beach for the weekend so no post tonight.  I plan on eating a lot and paying for it next week at the gym.  A male friend of mine asked me if I was cooking a turkey I said no, I've never cooked one, don't know how and really have no desire to learn.  Maybe one day but right now Mommy's turkey works and if I find a need to cook a turkey I prepare Cornish hen or a whole chicken.  Poultry is poultry right?

I will try to post once while gone but my mother doesn't have Internet (who doesn't have Internet these days?).  Maybe I can "borrow" from a neighbor.  

Until then...

Eat

Drink

and be Thankful!

Ben, the two of us love no more...

Dear Ben-

It was Michael Jackson who said: "With a friend to call my own I'll never be alone and you my friend will see you got a friend in me.

I didn't say it, perhaps you are a bit confused.

Poor Ben, you feel you're always running here and there and not wanted anywhere.  

You are right!  No one wants you around.

You certainly aren't wanted in my house.

Get to steppin'.  You tried to visit this summer... 

...I locked your beady eyes out.  Because I heard you are a bad house guest, this small deterrent was quickly replaced by a much larger one (a piece of heavy cement) because I really don't like the things I've heard about you.

I thought you got the hint...but noooo...I heard you begging and pleading to visit this week.

Oh, Ben!  What am I going to do with you?

NOOOOOOOO!  YOU CAN'T LIVE OR VISIT HERE!

You don't want to pay the mortgage, utilities or even food!  You just want to eat me out of house and home and then claim squatters rights to get me out of my home.

NOOOO!

GTFO!

I'm calling the Rat Patrol on you because you gots to get the H$#@ up outta here even before you get here!


Oh, in case you wanted a place to go Michael misses you.   I'm going to arrange for you (and your family) to visit him because that's just the type of giving person I am.

Me, Natalie and AARP

I went to the doctor's office today and while waiting I saw a magazine with a pretty black woman on the cover.  Ooohhh, Natalie Cole.  I wanted to read the article but the magazine was AARP The Magazine.  I immediately thought, do you really want to read this? You don't want someone to think you are interested in other items in the magazine, like the adult diapers, or heaven forbid they think you qualify as old enough to read AARP (sorry Mom).

So, what did I do?

I looked around to make sure no one was watching me (or the magazine), picked it up, folded the cover back (so you couldn't see AARP) and got my read on.

Can I Get a Do Over?

Tell me all of this gets better.

I’ve been absent because I’m trying to figure out WTH I’m going to do with my life. Unfortunately I keep thinking: “can I get a do over?”

So, since I can’t get a do-over. I’m learning how to deal with it all. This is it! or is that, This is it?

Dang, life has humbled me the past two years but I’m still here. I can't get a do-over so I'm trying to figure out how to do-now.

Let's see what I come up with.

Yes, the blog is bright red now. I'm so bored with the templates available that I decided to be in your face...how I want to live my life now.

One More Time

Ok...

I didn't get a whole lotta feedback, I'm sure I lost readers from my many hiatuses c'est la vie.

I'm gonna give it one mo' try since I do adore writing and it is such an outlet for me.  I'm going to do some things differently and shake it up a little more.  I'll let you know my plan in a few days and then get started.  The only thing I ask of you is give me more feedback and tell me if you are reading, and what you want more of...then share with your friends!

See you in a few days.  I have to go shake some more thoughts and ideas out of this big ole head!

A Question

I've been thinking about stopping the blog.  

I'm not sure if people are reading anymore since I've been negligent.  

If I don't stop what ideas do you have for posts so I can keep it daily (during the week) or at least more than once a week.  

I have so much on my plate that if this is wasted I might as well save the energy now.  

What does ye think?

My Deal of the Century

I wasn't sure if I was going to post about my huge bargains but, why the heck not.  

So, what had happened was... (Some of you may get this and others may not)

I put my stove on freecycle because it had a gas leak.  I decided not to get it fixed eventhough I loved the vintage look, I wanted something different.  Once I posted my stove a really nice woman emailed me and said she just bought a house with appliances she didn't want and I was welcomed to them.   Since I love a bargain (and rule #1 in my bargain handbook is: be prepared for a bargain at anytime) I said absolutely I'll come look.  Also, I knew the appliances had to be nice due to the location of the home.  So, I get there and what did I see?  A 36" Viking Professional stove, a 48" Sub Zero refrigerator and a 8' granite counter top!  I almost fell over with joy!   That is an understatement.  I was trying to play it cool though I'm not sure it worked. I just needed to figure out how to get the items home. 

After much drama, I am proud to report that my items are HOME!  I have a beautiful Viking gas stove that goes for $6,000 new and a gorgeous granite counter top with stainless sink that would go for at least $2,000.  I left the refrigerator; it was just too much drama to move because of the size and age along with the ventilation system.   Since I don't have to buy a stove or counter top for my kitchen remodel, I'll buy my own fancy shmancy refrigerator along with the ventilation system (I gave the old oven hood away because it looked like it could swallow my baby.  It was too massive and scared me.  I want something a little newer and more streamlined.  Heck, maybe someone else will give me a new refrigerator or oven hood; you never know when it comes to my deals!  Even if I have to purchase them I've saved at least $8,000 in kitchen items right now.  

Me singing: OH HAPPY DAY!

My beautiful stove.

The ginormous refrigerator I left.

The back of my very heavy and gorgeous countertop.         

The color of the granite is sitting on top.  

Well...my job is done now.  I'm going to admire (and clean my Viking).    

What is your best deal?

Lady in Red

Sitting here late Tuesday night, going through my insane number of blogs, I visited the Sartorialist blog.  I often forget about the blog, because it won't come up on my blog reader, unless someone mentions it.  (Thanks Tam)  I love looking at all the cool pictures, of real people in real fashion.  

So, everything was going along just fine, at 11:30pm, until I came across this picture of a beautiful Rageous Woman.    

I love that she is strutting her stuff and looks fabulous, BUT I suddenly realize how terrible I look at that this moment.  

Me: mismatched sweats, hair in bun all over head, pale skin (yes I get pale or gray), stuffing my face with saltine crackers thinking I need to go back to the gym tomorrow.   

On a brighter note: I do have shoes similar to those, big glasses and a fly black purse...must work on a coat (not in red though, clashes with the red hair) to replicate this look.  I'll get back to you on that...say April, it's too cold now!  

*Note to self: Don't view Sartorialist until you are having a great hair and fashion day unless you want to feel like a loser!

Planning My Funeral at Wal-Mart Today

I was feeling a little down today so I thought about planning my funeral.  This turning 40 really has me bummed.  So, what does any good 'ole American do when planning a funeral and shopping for a casket?  They go to Wal-Mart of course!  Yes, Wal-Mart!  The black casket I picked out above got 4.5 stars!

LOL

BTW...I really wasn't planning my funeral but caskets from Wal-Mart was too funny to pass up.  Thanks Misses.

What Does a Girl Do Instead of Blog? Shop!

Well not really shop b/c I'm saving money for adoption, but you know I know how to save a dime. I've been thrifting, freecycling like crazy (I'm a lot addicted and some of the things I've gotten you just wouldn't believe...later date) and figuring out what I have of value in my home and getting rid of stuff I don't want. For me and baby; I am VERY proud. Would you like to see what I've gotten? Glad you asked.  

I am a design maniac!  I've decided to leave the design blogs (and apparently blogging in general...is anyone there anymore) to those more focused than I but I live and die by great design.  Over the past few years I've been in a funk and so has my design but as of 40 I've taken my life and design back.  Since I'm saving for adoption I'm being a bit more creative than normal and having fun.  Who knew of all the things I could find.  When I saw this table it was love but not at couple grand price tag! Hmmm...thinking....

I can make that.  I found this drum at the thrift store for $6.  I still need to buy a glass top but you get the idea.  Check out my midcentury lamp on top.  ADORE.  It needs to be rewired and painted (not sure of color yet) but for the great design and $8 gotta love it!

Next on the list are two rocking chairs I had for years that I bought from a neighbor for like nothing when they moved.  I was thinking about selling them but when I put them on Craigslist my email started blowing up.  I thought, maybe I was too hasty.  Why am I of all people not checking this out more...I was in this decluttering phase so I really didn't care but I stopped in my tracks. 

I did a little recon and found out on 1stdibs that my chairs made in 1950 are by Lawrence Peabody; once refinished they will be worth a cool $2400! I think I'll keep them. That's my kid's inheritance! LOL (I bet you'll stop laughing at my thrifting and yard sale shopping now won't you!).  Don't hate me because I'm a beautiful, 40 year old shopping diva extraordinaire (you see I had to throw beautiful in there...someone has to tell me this if it is ONLY me! HA)!  

Moving on to this little bench ($10) that now has a special place at the foot of my bed (although that picture is the wall in my room).  I just love how different it is (I should probably paint it but due time).  I'll never see this in anyone else's home.  

 

I also must tell you that yesterday I came up on the Grandaddy of all deals but I can't tell you just yet.  I must show you and I'm not sure when that will be.  Sorry.  Some good things are just worth waiting for.  

Also, I know I'm supposed to post pictures of my organization but haven't taken any.  Next up...clothing finds.  

What are your best home finds...on sale, thrift, garage or yard sale?  

Almost Clutter Free

When I told my mother I wanted to de-clutter.  She said "where?"  I've always been neat but I had a secret, I hid clutter well.  Paper stacked ever so neatly.  All piles of whatever, had a nice pretty little home and well...don't open that door!  Until now.  I spent the last few months (the summer plus) sorting and getting rid of everything!  I mean everything.  I have gone through every single drawer, box, closet, cubbyhole, cabinet, shed and eve in my home (interior and exterior).  I've gotten rid of:

• jewelry
• furniture
• underwear/socks
• magazines
• unmatched silverware, extra pots, pans, storage containers
• expired anything
• clothes (that I don't wear/like/fit), things discolored, with a hole, out of date or anything questionable
• books I haven't opened in years and don't intend to
• extra vases and tchcokes that were attacking dust
• extra makeup, lotions and potions
• anything that I don't love, need, have sentimental value or that I think is beautiful was out of here!  
  

When I started doing this and I realized I didn't miss any of the items I thought many of the following things: 

Did I buy all of this crap?  Why?  Why?  Why?  When was the last time I used this?  What the Hell was I thinking?  Arghhh!  I want my money back!  Never again!  What a waste!  Are you kidding?  Now that was funny!  #$!@@%!!!**&%

I have posted over 200 items to freecyle.  Taken bags and bags to thrift and consignment stores.  Sold items on Craigslist - sorry ex man - you shouldn't have left that juicer here...too bad you didn't leave more!  I also had a yard sale where I made almost $500...okay one of my friends donated $150 for my adoption but I did give him some items so it still counts!  I have a few more things that I'm trying to decide if I should sell them on ebay, donate or give them away then I'm DONE decluttering!  

It feels and looks awesome. 

I have boxes for my storage shelf in the basement by the water heater, etc. (albeit not as pretty as I would like but that will come in the redecorating phase)...even the hammers and glue guns have homes now.  Why do I have 7 hammers and 6 glue guns?  Hmm when I couldn't find one I would buy another.  Not any more.  All medicine and vitamins have storage...I mean I'm like the queen of freakin' organization over here now!  What I have realized from all of this organization is that once you begin it is like a new disease.  I walk around my house now thinking do I really need this.  Most of the time the answer is No.  Yes!  I love this new less is more life.  

Now on to a major clean before redecorating.  That won't be fun!  

Tomorrow I'll post pictures of my awesome organization.  

Has anyone else gone through this?  Maybe you moved and were forced to de-clutter but how did you feel and what did you get rid of?

Hyperpigmentation be gone!

Remember when I look like this 12 weeks ago?  I really can't express how much worse it was than this showed.


Now I looks like this!

No more bad concealer.  No more running from people I know and hanging out in dark alleys. My complexion is almost 100% clear and I owe it to my dermatologist, SkinCeuticals and RetinA.  Little birds chirping in the background.  My daily facial routine:

Morning

-wash: a cream cleanser to moisturize and take the residue off from the night

- tone: Burt's Bees rosewater & glycerin toner

- eyes: Auriderm illume eye creme (for dark circles)

- Moisturize & Prevent SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel & Phloretin CF (drops are mixed)

- Extra Preventative: A Serum...whatever I'm feeling at the moment

- Hide: Neutrogena FaceShield 55SPF

Night

-wash: something different from the morning probably...I take my mascara off with olive oil

-tone: s/a

-eyes: s/a

-Moisturize & Prevent: s/a

-RETIN A... I love this stuff.  I have definitely seen a difference in my tone and those little lines...what lines I say!  BEG (on your hands and knees if you have to) your dermatologist for some.

-Extra Moisturize: a replenishing oil for that extra work when I sleep then I wake up all beautiful and rested...ok I wake up rested!  

Now, time to conquer these extra pounds (I start back at the gym and the South Beach diet this week).  

What is your beauty ritual?  What products have worked miracles for you?

It's Official...

I'm 40...mammogrammed out and all!

For those of you that said a mammogram is torture...hmmm...sorry. It was pretty easy to me. I do have a high pain tolerance though. Weirdo yes.

Has everyone else had their mammogram?  And yes, I'm back...for this week.  LOL (the pressure)  

Sometimes You Gots To Chill

I know it's been a few weeks but REALLY...I just had to CHILL! In my rageous age I'm learning not to sweat the small stuff and just do me. I'm enjoying me much more and remembering who I used to be, figuring out who I want (or am supposed) to be and paying attention to what God has planned for me.

So, I've taken my much needed blogging break; I'm back and much lighter (figuratively, not literally...I wish) I'll add. I'll share more in the coming days.

Until then...CHILL

My Book- Assistance Needed

I decided NOT to start a 3rd blog!  Are you freakin' kiddin' me?  I woke up a smelled the coffee?  I'm purging my life not making it more difficult.  So, this little 'ole blog of mine may have to change some but I'll figure out what the heck it is sooner or later.  Just roll with me.  In the meantime...if you didn't receive my personal email consider yourself lucky, you just get to read it here.  It is about my book.  I beg you (I don't beg often) please participate AND if you have a blog you can post something and ask people to help me out.  I would be forever in your debt!  I'll send you a book when published.  ;-)  But remember I'm pretty slow when it comes to mailing things!  LOL

Here goes it:

Call For Recession Lesson Submissions

My name is Tami; I’m an education consultant, entrepreneur, blogger, and potential adoptive single parent who has just realized (ok, maybe it's been a while) that I am about to become a parent during one of the worst economic climates in history. I worry about maintaining a stable life for my family today and tomorrow in light of all of that is going on in the world today. I know I’m not the only one with these concerns. Everyone is talking about it; someone should write a book about it in "real speak." Hey, great idea! Why don't I write that book? So, I’m reaching out to you for your assistance…I am interested in finding out how the recession has affected you.  

I don’t know about you, but the spendthrift days for me are gone. This economic setback has turned into the longest recession EVER. No one wants to use the D (depression) word for fear of a global meltdown, right??? But, I am sure we can all agree, this “recession” isn’t ending any time soon or maybe it just isn’t ending fast enough for us regular folk. Nevertheless, I’m getting used to it and have made adjustments for my new recession lifestyle. Who knew this would turn into a ”lifestyle”? However, after listening to friends, acquaintances, and the media, I realized this isn’t only my lifestyle; this is a new attitude many are taking hold of in some shape or form.  

People that once spurned thrift stores, coupons, sales, dollar nights, hand-me-downs, or anything thrifty are now looking to save a dime any way they can. So, my questions for you are:
• How has the recession changed your life and/or relationships?
• What things have you given up?
• What are you doing (examples please) to save money?
• What lessons have you learned?
• Once the economy is stable, will you return to your old habits? If so, which ones? Why?
• Have you prepared yourself for the future regardless of what it holds? Please explain.
• If you haven’t made any lifestyle adjustments, why not?

Answer one question or answer them all. Tell a story, make it funny, heartfelt or even a tearjerker, just be sure to include who, what, where, why and how the recession has affected you and how you have adjusted for it. The best advice, lessons and stories will be used as part of a book compilation of short stories about the recession. Don’t forget those cost saving examples!

Submission deadline: October 5, 2009

Include*: First Name or Initials; City, State
Email to: recessionlessons2009@gmail.com
*Optional: If interested and available for follow-up questions, please include your name, contact information, and best time to reach you.  

Thank you for your participation and for playing nicely in the sandbox with me!

Book Update

I have figured out my book!  Yes!  

Sidebar:  I met this guy online and after each point made he would put YES!  I of course never met him, very annoying and a little scary I might add.  BTTB (this texting has me all messed up)...Back to the book.

You will know more about it this week, which we know may mean next week for me.  I'm working on the book and book proposal now but in the meantime guess what?  I'm going to have another blog!  LOL  I can't keep up with the 2 I have now, but this one is a necessity for the book so If You Think You're Lonely Now: 

LOL...you can catch me at the other blog AND I do expect full participation!

Have a great weekend! Anything fun going on?

Product Review: Auriderm Illume Eye Cream

I've been on this quest to maintain my sexy.  Since turning 40, I don't want to let myself go and we all know how easy that is.  An extra helping of mashed potatoes, those cokes, daily happy hours, I'll exercise tomorrow (which rarely comes); oh, yes it is very easy to lose your sexy at 40 and older.   Ladies, I know we are tired of it all and want to do what we want to do, but we will just feel worse when it "all" creeps up on us then we bemoan when did xxx happen?  So, instead of those extra cokes, apple martinis, frappucinos and other yummy but not great for you items let's spend the money on making ourselves look and feel better.  Trust me, in the end this is much better for your self-esteem and health.

Stepping off of my soapbox.

Remember, when I went to the dermatologist for my hyperpigmentation?  I also had circles under my eyes.  Pretty (ugly) I know.  I purchased a product for that also.  I would like to report it is working wonders!  I no longer look like the other person won the fight or like a panda cub (cute as they may be).  

Auriderm Illume Eye Creme - $50

Use twice daily (with your regular eye cream) and you are good to go.  You should start seeing results in 4-6 weeks (I did).  

Auriderm is now part of my beauty arsenal!  Great product!  

Does anyone else use anything for dark circles?  

Wrong Target Market

Yesterday, I received a clothing catalog in the mail and was excited because I thought it was my beloved Anthropologie.  At second glance it wasn't, it was Urban Outfitters.  Hmmm.  I've never received a catalog from them I thought.  I haven't purchased any clothes from there since college.  I have seen some cute, funky items for my house, but clothes...no.  I wondered, how did I get on the mailing list considering I'm a little past their target marketing age.  Well, maybe there was something cute in the catalog I thought.  

Hmmmmm.  Nope!

Again.  How did they get my information?  They should ask for their money back for my name on that list they purchased.  What a rip-off!  Clearly, I'm not in their target group!  Where is my Anthropologie catalog?  

What catalogs are you waiting for?  

Urban Outfitters Early Fall '09 Catalog 

False Alarm

Well, after a second visit AND a new adoption counselor, I decided against the puppy.  I really liked her, but I think she had a lot too much energy and I would have had to take her back to the rescue (to be rescued from me) if she started chewing my Noguchi table.  

Jus' keepin' it real.  

Doggie Update

I think I found a puppy!  I wasn't necessarily looking for a puppy as I have been told, I was looking for dogs under age 2 and hypoallergenic.  Today I stopped off at the Washington Animal Rescue League just to see what was what.  I saw all the hypoallergenic dogs but there was one more dog they wanted to show me that was only 5 months old, not hypoallergenic but so sweet.  I said sure why not.  Aww man!  I think I may love her.  She is a Chihuahua and Miniature Pincher mix.  She's playful, lovable and so cute!  Not hypoallergenic or potty trained (lol) but fairly obedient.  

I visited with her for about an hour; I'm going to take my friend and her daughter to see her later today.  I did place an application, so I may be a first time Mommy soon.  I'll be prepared for Baby I next year yet!  :-)  

Are my Toes Aging?

No seriously, I'm having some toe issues and I need help.  One toe on my left foot and 2 on my right (my toe knuckles if there is a such thing), the skin is getting/has gotten hard and dark.  Hyperpigmentation on my toes?  I mean WTFIGOH?  Any suggestions for helping my toes and feet?  I would hate to pay money to go back to my expensive azz dermatologist for my toes but I will.  

So...what do I do?  What do I do about my toes peeps?  I know you are laughing but answer my question between giggles!  

RUT?

(click picture to make larger)

I'm crazy busy these days always seeming like I'm doing nothing.  I'm still working on enjoying my 40s...I'll let you know when that happens.  In the meantime see if you can decipher this:

My BFF went to Tarjay and bought me this periodic text table so she/we could understand all the new lingo.  TBH, I thought texting was NBD until this chart.  Man, it's really FMTYEWTK!  Def!  However, I will admit some are NTK so I don't look like a L7.  

So, if you have a QT or Sk8r at home then U2 will be sending me THX BTA DKDC just may be easier.  MLAS!

TFLMS.  TTFN!

Tami

Food Poisoning Follow-up

TamStyles got a great response from a customer service follow-up which reminded me I forgot to tell you all about my food poisoning follow-up with Safeway.  They were very apologetic and sent me a $100 gift card.  As many days as I was sick it really should have been more, but the $100 was very nice to have.  It went very fast and I had fruit for days.  No more fish from Safeway though!   

Moral of the story: always let companies/organizations know when they do not meet your service or product expectation.

The Late Night Infomercial Suka

Yes, I'm the one who stays up late and (cough) makes infomercial purchases.

I've gotten:

A super duper drill that cuts through anything...love that thing!  Whatcha got?  I'll cut it for you!

A table saw...my brother broke it.

The Magic Bullet blender...so-so.

Free Money Books...didn't get a dime.

Real Estate Investments...I own one house, mine!

A vacuum...I think???

Feet for a sewing machine to create new stitches...gave them away still in the box 2 months ago with the receipt from '99.

Windsor Pilates...I do it occasionally, as a matter of fact I took it out today!  

Some book about health...that should tell you because I can't even remember what it was.

Another money book...I just got it today, I'll tell you later.  I'm determined to find some free money, apparently, to pay for these things I keep buying off of infomercials!

I'm sure there are more that my memory has blocked out, but I've saved the best for last.

AND I'm ashamed to say...I bought Cindy Crawford's Meaningful Beauty 3 months ago!  ROTFL

Sorry, I didn't take a picture and I couldn't find a larger picture online, okay I got too lazy.

Go ahead, I know you are laughing at me.  My dermatologist looked at me like I was crazy and had a good laugh.  I figured I might as well try it, she is beautiful, what do I have to loose.  Yes, I am the perfect consumer.  I should try sleeping more, it would keep me out of trouble.  So, here is the scoop on Cindy's product.

First, there are wayyyyyy too many products: eye, masque, decollete, morning, night, toner, cleanser, serum, creams.  Oy vey!  I was in the bathroom too long, but I admit I did like pampering myself...in the beginning.  In the end, I was like give me a break.  I don't have Cindy's money, I have crap to do.  So, I started skipping steps and that was that.  Did the products work you ask?  Somewhat.  I think they are good for sensitive skin, which I have.  I can't say that I saw any noticeable changes but things didn't get worse either.  My skin did feel nice.  I do really like the mask I will admit.  Oh, I also really like the serum but it is so small that it doesn't last a month so that could be kind of pricey.  The one thing that this kit did get me in the habit of doing is using a toner.  I now see the benefit and will continue but will probably use Burt's Bees as I really like their all natural products.  

Ok, there you have it.  Have at me or you can admit to your infomercial purchases also.  

Maxi: Yea or Nea?

Where does the time go?  If I only got paid on my own island because I sure do spend enough time there.  My bad!  Anyhoo...

I love a maxi dress. Vintage all the better. I have no less than a dozen vintage maxi length dresses so I can rock one at any time of the year. I always get compliments but they are often accompanied by someone saying "Tami only you can wear that and still look good." Comlimpent or diss? Not sure. Don't care.

The following was on the Sartorialist site...fabulosity from the streets of Paris:

So, how do you feel about the dress?  Do you like maxi dresses in general?  

Cher-isims

I never realized how much I liked Cher until I was visiting Rosina at Middle Ageless and she had some wonderful quotes by Cher.  Who knew she was full of wisdom? Cher actually made me think this evening.  I have a new view or went back to my old view on men, hey Cher agrees...hee hee.  Here are my favourites:

"I had my nose done, my breasts done, and my teeth done.....If I want to put my tits on my back, it's nobody's business but my own."

"A girl can wait for the right man to come along but in the meantime that still doesn't mean she can't have a wonderful time with all the wrong ones."

"Don't take your toys inside just because it's raining."

"I don't need a man. But I'm happier with one. I like to have someone I can touch and squeeze and kiss. But I don't fold up and die if I don't have a man around."

"If you really want something you can figure out how to make it happen."

"It's not necessary, in order to be a complete person, that I have a man. It's not the end-all, be-all of my life."

"Men aren't necessities. They're luxuries."

"Men should be like Kleenex, soft, strong and disposable."

"Some years I'm the coolest thing that ever happened, and then the next year everyone's so over me, and I'm just so past my sell date."

"Until you're ready to look foolish, you'll never have the possibility of being great."

"Living your life the way you want to live it is the most important thing so if you have to pay small prices along the way, it's not important."

"If you are going to wait for someone to encourage you to do something, you just better give up."

Guess What I'm Getting????

My best friend called me today and said for my birthday she decided what she is getting me and I have no say in the matter...

A PUPPY!!!!! 

I went looking today but didn't find one I liked.  I'm going again tomorrow.  I guess if I can't have a man I can have a wo-man's best friend.  I'll keep you posted on my puppy.

Any suggestions for a small, playful dog that is good with kids?  

Product Review: Obagi Nu Derm Clear

As you read in my post yesterday Obagi Nu Derm is some strong stuff.  Apparently, there are people who swear by Obagi, but I am not one of them.  I have sensitive skin and it didn't work for me, it burned me thus making my hyperpigmentation worse.  My dermatologist (the real one) said I could use it on my back but I'm afraid to even use it there.  

As with most name brands it is expensive.  90 bucks!  But a little goes a long way.  I imagine this bottle would last a few months...If anyone uses this I have a bottle going real cheap.  

Has anyone had success from this or any Obagi product?  

How the Dermatologist Jacked Me Up

Do I look happy?  NOOOOOO!!!!!  

I haven't been taking the best care of myself, I'll admit it.  I've been crazy stressed, don't sleep like I should and haven't been eating right.  So, when a few months ago when I started getting dark spots on my face I was concerned.  I changed my facial products.  No avail.  I tried to sleep more.  No luck.  I am trying to drink more water.  Nope.  So, I purchased OTC Esoterica fade cream.  That worked a tiny bit but I was still concerned because it wasn't really working.  Dark marks on the face...not cute.  I had to wear concealer/foundation moisturizer and I don't like concealer and foundation.  

I finally broke down and contacted my dermatologist but it was 45 days to see her.  Not good enough.  I looked for reviews for other top dermatologists.  I made an appointment with one since the wait was only a week.  Immediately (when I walked through the door) I knew I wouldn't like this dermatologist but my face needed help.  She gave me a more potent lightening cream, Obagi.  I used this stuff for 2 weeks and my face got worse.  As a matter of fact the chemicals burned my face.  

Uh, oh.  Not happy.

I contacted my regular dermatologist and begged for an emergency appointment.  I went the next day and she looked at my face and said "What happened to you?"  I told her the story and she said the treatment was too strong for my skin since I have sensitive skin.  She also informed me that the burn went down a layer or two on my face and the only way to get the discoloration out now is a combination of natural lightening products and laser.  

OUCH!  

So, let's talk how much money I'm out now.  I paid $115 to the first doctor for treatment and products that made me worse.  My regular doctor (who I trust) says I need new products and laser.  Products and office visit $365.  Laser which I haven't had yet $350.  

Oh, and what did this all start from?  Hormones I'm told.  WHAT?????  

Is this what I have to continue looking forward to in my 40s?  HORMONES messing up my life, body and face?  I've been taking hormones for 5 years now and I'm just 40!  I wonder if I need a new prescription or if this is par for the course.  I'm not coming off of them because the doctor said I'm too young and they have their benefits of which I'm totally in support of.  

ARRRGGGGHHHH!!!!! 

I guess until this goes away it's concealer and foundation.  Any good recommendations out there?  

Oh, what did I learn from this?  Never trust my face to anyone else except Cultura.  Just like my dentist, they are both a little more expensive but oh so worth it!  

Giveaway #2: Any BITCH Can Cook

Ahhh...don't get your thongs all worked up and in a knot. BITCH is a term of endearment in this case.  Lil' Wayne or Snoop said the same thing didn't they?  

clearing throat

So, if you're a B(abe) I(n) T(otal) C(ontrol) of H(erself), but you're tired of thinking what to put on the table every night, this is the cookbook and apron for you! From Appetizers & Drinks (spinach balls, Texas Trash, & Bloody Marys) to Breads & Brunch (peach muffins, banana split muffins), Sandwiches & Soups; Salads & Sauces; Main Dishes; Vegetables; & Desserts, this cookbook is full of comfort food at its finest (and easiest).  Cookbook and apron: $50 value.

Have I cooked anything from this cookbook?  Of course not, I don't wonder about what to put on the table, cereal is cool with me.  

The contest will run through Wednesday, July 22nd.  Just leave a message here or email me and I'll enter you in the contest.   Not that I've mailed the prize from giveaway #1, but that is not the point.  I'm slow hitting the post office -you still win- I'll mail the prizes at the same time.   LOL  (Now you understand why I hate to post things on Ebay!)

Youthful Looking Nails?

Is there a such thing as youthful looking nails?  Do men really pay attention to your nails?  Do I really feel better if my nails are done?  I used to think the answer was no until recently.  

I used to be very high maintenance but it was hard on my purse and on my nerves.  I made (and am still making) an effort to pare down my lifestyle which included getting rid of those acrylic nails.  I continued to keep my nails trim and clean but I gave up fingernail polish (the toes stayed done) because it never stayed on very long.  I did find a few that stayed on a few days but it became too much trouble, so I just didn't bother.  

One of the things I have promised myself (for my 40s and beyond) is that I am always going to look good just for me which includes my nails.  As a result, a few months ago I started polishing my fingernails again, however I was using a neutral polish.  I loved the way it looked but I didn't think anyway else noticed.  I was wrong.  

The past few weeks several men (even twenty-somethings) have said how nice my hands and nails look.  One man said what color is that, peach?  WOW!  I always do my nails now.  The neutral dries fast and gives a quick gloss.  I can do my nails in 15 minutes (or less) and I'm  good to go. I've branched out to lighter neutrals and may even try fashion colors again...as long as they come from OPI or Essie.  Love them!

Do you do/get your nails done regularly?  What is your favorite polish brand?

More Sequin Love

Silly rabbits, sequins don't equate to old age! I was too sick to do a fashion show of me rockin' sequins but I will.  They are definitely not for everyone, like vintage clothing, but they don't signify old age.  People Magazine had a poll about sequin pants and only 12% of the participants said they would wear this trend.  Not surprising that I am part of the small percentage; I've always had my own program and walked to my own beat on my own island.  

Angie Harmon (age 36), Blake Lively (age 21) and Eva Herzigova (age 36)

BTW, I feel better today.  I'm going to eat and drink like I've just gotten released from the hospital for the week.  I'm afraid of food right now.  Sickness is always a great way to loose a few pounds! ;-)

Spoke To Soon...

ARRGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!!!  It won't let me be!  

Can I get a break?  I've missed a great weekend.  

I want my money back for the crab legs that made me sick, I'm requesting that tomorrow!

Feeling Better

It's 3:46 am and I'm FINALLY starting to feel better.   My stomach cramps, body aches, headache, fever, hot/cold flashes and nausea have started to subside.  I think today I will actually be able to take a shower and enter the land of the living.  I won't be 100% but better.  

Whew, that was terrible!  

BTW...the culprit was crab legs purchased and cooked at Safeway.  

Food Poisoning...HELP

Anyone ever had food poisoning?  I have a small (what is small) case of it.  

What can I do other than lay in a little ball on the floor of my bathroom?  

HELLLLLPPPPPPP!!!!!!!

Washing That Gray Right Outta My Hair!

Remember the commercial jingle from the '70s?  

"I'm gonna wash that gray right outta my hair.  I'm gonna wash that gray right outta my hair."

whistling now....

Well, that is exactly what I did today!  No, my brows aren't gray, but I need to look like a natural redhead don't I? 

And how was your day?  

The Color Purple

Last week one of my friends (a former client) called me and said she was taking a couple of her friends out for dinner and to see The Color Purple...to my surprise I was invited also.  Wow. How nice. I took my mother to see The Color Purple on Broadway when it first came out and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I definitely was excited to see it again.

Five of us met at the Kennedy Center for dinner first at the Roof Terrace Restaurant.  Can you say YUMMY?  OMG. If you have a chance to catch a show at the Kennedy Center please, Please, PLEASE eat dinner at the Roof Terrace; you won't regret it, I promise.

Next, the show.  Fabulous.  It was a little different from when on Broadway, but IMHO it was better.  Fantasia did her thing as Celie! 

"I curse you.  Until you do right by me everything you think about is gonna crumble!" (maybe I should have said this to Mr. Wonderful last week...tee hee hee)

If you haven't seen the Color Purple yet...GO!  As you can tell, we had a great night.  I must spend more time with my friends.  More girl's nights I feel are coming up this year before baby girl comes home AND you can quote me on that one!

Has anyone else seen The Color Purple? 

Sequin Love

Now this is how you do it...

A fabulous silver streak in the hair (mine will always be dyed though),

a casual yet appropriate enough top,

a great sexy pair of heels,

AND

a pair of funky sequined pants.  LOVE!  Oh, yes...I love sequins, metallic and anything sparkly!

Does anyone else love their fabulousness?  Tell me I am not the only one.  

Thanks Coco+Kelley for the great picture yesterday.  

So Far, 40 Sucks!

As Tam says I keep it real, so I'm just keepin' it real...thus far 40 sucks! I've been having a miserable month so I needed to take an unexpected break from the blog world for a little while. Since life seems to keep getting the best of me I've decided what the hell, I might as well start blogging again--it's a legal and inexpensive diversion albeit time killer.

The only thing I will share about the past few weeks is Mr. Wonderful is history. I was surprised and heartbroken because it was perfect, but apparently only on my end or in my mind. He told me last week that he was looking for someone like Erykah Badu. WTF? Erykah Badu? In the words of one of my friends...I guess he wants a weirdo with 3 baby daddies. Sighhhhhh.

Good Bye! Good Luck finding your Erykah.

L.A.M.B. = Shoegasam

Last week when I went shopping for my birthday I came across a designer that I never paid much attention to until I saw a pair of shoes that I just wanted to have sex with.  L.A.M.B. by Gwen Steffani.  OMG.  Her shoes are beautiful!  I put a pair on and they felt as good as they looked, even at 4" high.  As I sat in the Neiman Marcus Last Call outlet for a minute trying to compose myself and catch my breath the sales woman came over.  I told her it was my birthday week and how much I loved these shoes.  As a matter of fact I loved them so much I just wanted to have sex with them.  She said that was a good way to describe them because they were just that sexy.  Too bad for me, I had absolutely no where to wear them; they weren't practical, but damn they were sexy and pretty as $%#&!  As I walked around for another 15 minutes in them, trying on other shoes, adoring them, knowing I couldn't take them home, I decided on two other pair of shoes that were more practical.  A blue pair of flats to wear with jeans and a comfy pair of white wedges:

So, I put the wonderful L.A.M.B shoes back and left the area content with my new shoes and feeling the need for a cigarette for sure.  Since I forgot to take a picture of the shoe and can't find the exact shoe online, I've decided to show you a few other sexy shoes from Gwen Steffani's L.A.M.B. line.  I never knew how comfortable and sexy her shoes were, but from now on, I'm going to start checking for her line of shoes.  They are pricey no doubt, but any shoes that are comfy and make me want a cigarette (and I don't even smoke) are okay by me.

Has anyone worn L.A.M.B shoes?  What is your favorite line of shoes?